Independent school tour — we visit, film and tell you everything a parent needs to know.
Coming soon
Beyond International School opened in 2025 in Barcarena — and from the start it set out to do things differently. The campus is brand new and genuinely beautiful: a purpose-built environment designed with real care for how children experience a school day. For families who believe that space and surroundings matter, Beyond is one of the most visually striking new schools to open in the Lisbon area in years.
The school follows the Cambridge curriculum and teaches bilingually — English and Portuguese — from the earliest years. This makes it a strong option for families who want their children to develop genuine fluency in both languages, not just have Portuguese as an add-on subject. The school currently covers ages 3 to 12 (Kindergarten through Grade 8).
One practical detail worth noting: lunch is included in the tuition — not common among international schools in the area, and a meaningful saving over the year. Barcarena is well-placed between Lisbon, Sintra, and Cascais, accessible from the A5 and A16.
Schools Reviews assessment
✓ What we like
Brand-new, beautifully designed campus — one of the most striking new school environments in the Lisbon area
Genuinely bilingual — English and Portuguese taught equally from the start, not Portuguese as an afterthought
Lunch included in tuition — unusual and saves families a meaningful amount annually
Cambridge curriculum — internationally recognised and well-structured
Conveniently located between Lisbon, Sintra and Cascais
◎ Worth noting
Opened in 2025 — very new school, still establishing routines and track record. Worth visiting in person to assess the team and culture
Currently covers only up to Grade 8 (ages 3–13) — families will need to plan a school transition for senior years
No school bus at present
Academics
Teaching language
English + Portuguese (bilingual)
Ages covered
3–13 years (Kindergarten – Grade 8)
Extra languages
Portuguese (bilingual — native level)
Sport & activities within curriculum
Extra language
Portuguese (bilingual)
After school activities
Digital / coding
To be edited
Other activities
To be edited
Fees · 2026/27
* Always verify fees directly with the school — they change annually.
Frequently asked questions
Is Beyond International School a new school?
Yes — Beyond opened in 2025. The campus is brand-new and purpose-built. As with any new school, some aspects of school life are still developing, but the focus on environment and bilingual education is clear from the start. Visiting in person is the best way to assess the team and culture.
Is Beyond truly bilingual?
Yes — the school teaches in both English and Portuguese from the start, aiming for genuine bilingualism rather than Portuguese as a secondary subject. This makes it a strong option for families planning a longer stay in Portugal or who want their children to be integrated into Portuguese society and language.
What ages does Beyond cater for?
The school currently covers Kindergarten through Grade 8, ages 3 to approximately 13. It does not yet have a senior school. Families with younger children who plan to be in Portugal long-term should factor in that a school move will be needed for secondary education.
How much does Beyond International School cost?
Annual tuition ranges from €9,010 (Kindergarten) to €11,800 (Grades 7–8). Notably, lunch is included in the fees — which is not common among international schools in the area and adds real value to the overall cost comparison. Always verify current fees directly with the school.
Where is Beyond International School located?
The school is in Barcarena, between Lisbon, Sintra and Cascais — accessible from the A5 and A16 motorways. It is a convenient location for families living across the wider western Lisbon suburbs. There is currently no school bus service.